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Evaluation of claw lesions in beef cattle slaughtered in northern Portugal : a preliminary study
Claw diseases have a profound impact on cattle welfare, affecting behaviors such as grazing,
rumination, rest, decubitus, and water consumption. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of
claw lesions and classify them according to the ICAR Claw Health Atlas (International Committee
of Animal Recording) in two slaughterhouses. The influence of claw lesions on carcass weight,
classification, and fat deposition was also examined. Involving 343 crossbreed cattle from 103 different
extensive or semi-intensive farms, this study found an animal prevalence of claw disorders at 65.8%,
with a higher incidence in females (n = 207, 60.35%) compared to males (n = 136, 39.65%). Despite the
observed prevalence, claw lesions were not influenced by age or sex (p > 0.05). The main claw lesions
identified, including heel horn erosion, double sole, and asymmetric claw, were consistent with the
cattle management practices in the study area. These cattle were raised in small, rustic premises
with uneven floors, utilizing a mix of manure and plant material as bedding and lacking access to
pasture. Also, no negative economic impact was detected concerning carcass weight, classification,
or fat deposition. Consequently, it was concluded that the presence of claw lesions in beef cattle
raised under the characteristic management of this geographical area does not adversely affect animal
health or farm economics.
Description:
DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT : Data are contained within the article and Supplementary Materials.
SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL : The supporting information provides details on cattle claw lesions by sex, age, hot carcass weight, carcass classification, and fat coverage.